CDS Group acquires majority stake in fire detection firm

CDS Group Holdings has acquired Leicester-based Complete Detection Systems Limited for an undisclosed sum.

Complete Detection Systems was established in 1988 by Martin Iliffe and Tony Mikunda and specialises in the design, installation, supply, servicing and commissioning of fire detection and life safety systems for a wide range of sectors across the UK.

Managing director Simon Abley said: “This is an exciting time for the CDS business, and I look forward to working with Simon, Martin, Tony and the team to continue to build the business, both organically and by further acquisitions over the years to come.

“The fire detection and life safety systems market, indeed the compliance services sector generally, is deeply fragmentated and we anticipate will provide a strong ‘buy and build’ opportunity for CDS.

“I would like to thank HSBC, Cooper Parry and Browne Jacobson for providing fantastic support throughout the process.”

Mike Jackson, corporate finance partner at Browne Jacobson, added:“We are delighted to have supported this acquisition of a strong business in a sector with lots of opportunities for consolidation. Having worked with the management team for a number of years, we look forward to working with the team once again to help grow the CDS business.”

The Browne Jacobson team advising Simon Abley and chairman Simon Cashmore was Mike Jackson and Clare Hanna. Other buyside advisers included Cooper Parry.